A recent collaboration between Namibian singer-songwriter Harry Mutambo Junior Tjipueja, well known as Waters, and South African artist Mashudu the Vocalist has put Waters on the map and seen him scoop the One Africa
Award at the recently concluded Metro Music Awards 2023 in South Africa.
According to Waters, the award is a prestigious accolade which celebrates the best artists in Africa.
This achievement is a first of its kind for the Namibian artist, marking his entry into South Africa’s top 20 charts with his single ‘Kwelizayo’.
In a recent interview, Waters shared his journey and inspirations, as well as the way forward in the music industry.
“This award is a testament to the evolution of Namibian music and its recognition on the global stage. Being the first artist from outside South Africa to win the best African musician of the year on radio award, from the largest urban radio station in Africa, is a significant milestone not just for me, but for my country.
“I am extremely humbled to be a part of history. Makhadzi won her first Metro Award at the same time as me, and ‘Sete’, undoubtebly one of the biggest songs of 2022, lost four awards to AKA. It was a dream to share the stage with most of the current African musical geniuses I look up to, as well as legends in the industry. Mafikizolo won a lifetime achievement award,” he said.
He said collaborating with Mashudu added a unique flavour to the song.
‘Kwelizayo’ reflects on the highs and lows of a relationship. It speaks to the power of choosing love, despite the challenges couples may face.
“The song was written to celebrate black love. Black love is the foundation of building our communities,” he said.
‘Becoming’ is a collection of my experiences and growth in the music industry. It represents my journey from a passionate music enthusiast to an artist who has found his unique voice, or as I like to say, ‘Becoming Waters’.”
The gifted Afro-vocalist and acoustic guitar player is considered to be one of Namibia’s most hardworking artists, with his recent accomplishments setting a new standard in the African music industry, proving that talent knows no boundaries. – unWrap.online
